Fully telescoping device mount

ABSTRACT

A telescoping device mount is configured to hold an electronic device. The telescoping device mount is configured to fully extend or fully retract the electronic device. The telescoping device mount includes a telescoping post, a mount segment, and a base. The telescoping post includes an inner post segment and an outer post segment. The mount segment is configured to secure an electronic device thereto. The mount segment includes an outer collar slidably securable to the outer post segment of the telescoping post. The base is secured to the inner post segment such that the outer post segment telescopes relative to the inner post segment. In a fully retracted position, the electronic device is proximate to the base and/or an underlying surface.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS AND PRIORITY CLAIM

This application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/923,961, filed Jul. 8, 2020, entitled “Fully TelescopingDevice Mount”, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein byreference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure generally relates to mounts for electronicdevices. More specifically, the present disclosure generally relates totelescoping mounts for electronic devices on a vehicle, such as awatercraft.

BACKGROUND

Various independent electronic devices may be utilized on any of variousvehicles. For example, a boater may add an electronic fish finder to aboat to assist the boater in locating fish relative to the boat. Theelectronic device may be used intermittently, such that it is not neededduring all activities. Thus, the user may desire to lower the electronicdevice while not in use.

Existing telescoping mounts only allow for a limited range of motion.Thus, even when fully lowered, the electronic device on the telescopingmount is still in an intermediate position. What is lacking in the priorart is a telescoping mount that allows the electronic device to bedisposed fully against an underlying surface.

This background discussion is intended to provide information related tothe present invention which is not necessarily prior art.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Embodiments of the invention solve the above-mentioned problem (as wellas other problems) by providing a fully telescoping device mount. Thefully telescoping mount allows the user to move the electronic devicefrom a raised, prominent position to a lowered position adjacent to anunderlying surface. The electronic device being disposed in the loweredposition is more stable and less of an obstruction while the electronicdevice is not in use.

A first embodiment of the invention is broadly directed to a telescopingdevice mount configured to hold an electronic device on a vehicle, thetelescoping device mount comprising a telescoping post, a mount segment,and a base. The telescoping post includes an inner post segment and anouter post segment. The mount segment is configured to secure anelectronic device thereto. The mount segment includes an outer collarslidably securable to the outer post segment of the telescoping post.The base is secured to the inner post segment such that the outer postsegment telescopes upward and downward relative to the inner postsegment.

A second embodiment of the invention is broadly directed to a method ofutilizing an electronic device on a vehicle, the method comprising:releasing a post lock of a telescoping post; raising an outer postsegment relative to an inner post segment, wherein the inner postsegment is secured to the vehicle via a base; releasing a collar lock ofa mount segment; raising the mount segment relative to the outer post;and altering an angle of a device in the mount segment relative to thetelescoping post.

A third embodiment of the invention is broadly directed to a mountedelectronic device system comprising an electronic device and atelescoping device mount. The electronic device has a display. Thetelescoping device mount is configured to hold the electronic device.The telescoping device mount includes a telescoping post, a mountsegment, and a base. The telescoping post includes an inner post segmentand an outer post segment. The mount segment is configured to secure theelectronic device thereto. The mount segment includes an outer collarslidably securable to the outer post segment of the telescoping post.The base is secured to the inner post segment such that the outer postsegment telescopes relative to the inner post segment. The base isconfigured to be secured to an underlying surface, such as a vehicle.The telescoping device mount is configured to be disposed in a fullretraction position and a full extension position, wherein in the fullretraction position the electronic device is proximate to the underlyingsurface such that the electronic device is stowed. The underlyingsurface is a vehicle.

Advantages of these and other embodiments will become more apparent tothose skilled in the art from the following description of the exemplaryembodiments which have been shown and described by way of illustration.As will be realized, the present embodiments described herein may becapable of other and different embodiments, and their details arecapable of modification in various respects. Accordingly, the drawingsand description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not asrestrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The Figures described below depict various aspects of systems andmethods disclosed therein. It should be understood that each Figuredepicts an embodiment of a particular aspect of the disclosed systemsand methods, and that each of the Figures is intended to accord with apossible embodiment thereof. Further, wherever possible, the followingdescription refers to the reference numerals included in the followingFigures, in which features depicted in multiple Figures are designatedwith consistent reference numerals. The present embodiments are notlimited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown in theFigures.

FIG. 1 is an exemplary environmental view showing usage of an electronicdevice on a fully telescoping device mount in a boat;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a fully telescoping device mounthaving an electronic device thereon, shown in a fully extended position;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the fully telescoping device mount ofFIG. 2 , shown in a fully retracted position with the electronic deviceadjacent an underlying surface;

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the fully telescoping device mount;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a first alternative embodiment of atelescoping device mount, shown in the fully extended position;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the alternative embodiment of FIG. 5 ,shown in the fully retracted position;

FIG. 7 is a rear view of the alternative embodiment of FIG. 5 ;

FIG. 8 is a vertical cross-section view of the line 8-8 of FIG. 7 ,showing internal components of the alternative embodiment of the fullytelescoping device mount;

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the alternative embodiment of the fullytelescoping device mount;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a second alternative embodiment of afully telescoping device mount, configured to support two distinctelectronic devices, shown in the fully extended position.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the alternative embodiment of FIG. 10 ,shown in the fully retracted position;

FIG. 12 is a rear view of a base of the alternative embodiment of FIG.10 , showing a selectively removable base;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an first alternative embodiment of ayoke; and

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a second alternative embodiment of ayoke.

The Figures depict exemplary embodiments for purposes of illustrationonly. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the followingdiscussion that alternative embodiments of the systems and methodsillustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principlesof the invention described herein. While the drawings do not necessarilyprovide exact dimensions or tolerances for the illustrated components orstructures, the drawings, not including any purely schematic drawings,are to scale with respect to the relationships between the components ofthe structures illustrated therein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention is susceptible of embodiment in many differentforms. While the drawings illustrate, and the specification describes,certain preferred embodiments of the invention, it is to be understoodthat such disclosure is by way of example only. There is no intent tolimit the principles of the present invention to the particulardisclosed embodiments. For instance, the drawing figures do not limitthe present invention to the specific embodiments disclosed anddescribed herein. Furthermore, directional references (for example, top,bottom, up, and down) are used herein solely for the sake of convenienceand should be understood only in relation to each other. For instance, acomponent might in practice be oriented such that faces referred to as“top” and “bottom” are sideways, angled or inverted relative to thechosen frame of reference.

In this description, references to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, or“embodiments” mean that the feature or features being referred to areincluded in at least one embodiment of the technology. Separatereferences to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, or “embodiments” inthis description do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment and arealso not mutually exclusive unless so stated and/or except as will bereadily apparent to those skilled in the art from the description. Forexample, a feature, structure, act, etc. described in one embodiment mayalso be included in other embodiments but is not necessarily included.Thus, the present technology can include a variety of combinationsand/or integrations of the embodiments described herein.

Exemplary Environment and Usages

Embodiments of the invention are directed to a telescoping device mount10. Embodiments of the invention may be utilized in any of variousenvironments. An exemplary environment is shown in FIG. 1 and discussedbelow. However, it should be appreciated that this environment is onlyexemplary and that various embodiments of the invention may be utilizedin other environments.

Turning to FIG. 1 , an exemplary environment for embodiments of theinvention is shown. A first exemplary purpose for embodiments of theinvention is in boating. The exemplary environment may include a boat 12or other watercraft configured to hold one or more embodiments of theinvention. The user may desire to add one or more electronic devices 14to the boat 12. The electronic devices 14 may assist the user inperforming any of various functions related to or otherwise utilizingthe boat 12. The electronic device 14 may assist the user in boatoperation, fishing, navigation, entertainment, autopilot, or otherfunctions. The electronic device 14 is mounted so as to dispose theelectronic device 14 at a desired height and angle.

Examples of electronic devices 14 that may be utilized on a boat 12include a fish finder, a transducer, a chart plotter, a radar screen, awind vane, a radar, a GPS or other location-determining device, atelevision or other entertainment device, an audio antenna, a cableantenna, a VHF antenna, an LTE antenna, a monitor, an autopilot display,any of various instrumentation, a set of telematics controls, anelectronic picture frame, and other devices. The electronic device 14may include any combination of the above-mentioned structures as well,as well as other structures.

In many instances, the user may desire to use the electronic device 14intermittently. In these instances, the user may desire to move theelectronic device 14 to a less obtrusive height and angle. This isbecause the electronic device 14 may only need to be usedintermittently. For example, a fish finder electronic device 14 may onlybe needed during fishing. Thus, the user may desire to store the fishfinder electronic device 14 in an unobtrusive height and angle duringnon-use and display the fish finder electronic device 14 at a prominentheight and angle during use.

FIG. 1 shows the telescoping device mount 10 in use for the firstexemplary purpose. FIG. 1 shows a bow end 16 of the boat 12 so as topresent an exemplary mounting location of the electronic device 14.Shown is the telescoping device mount 10 and the electronic device 14disposed on the boat 12. Embodiments of the invention may be configuredto be secured to any of various locations or structures on the boat 12.As a first example, embodiments of the invention may be configured to besecured to a foredeck 18 of the boat 12, as shown in FIG. 1 . Theforedeck 18 is a deck at the bow end 16 of the boat 12. Embodiments ofthe invention may be configured to be secured to the foredeck 18 suchthat access to an underside is accessible for securing of thetelescoping device mount 10.

As a second example, not illustrated, embodiments of the invention maybe configured to be secured to a gunwale 20 of the boat 12. The gunwale20 is an upper edge of the hull of the boat 12. As a third example, notillustrated, embodiments of the invention may be configured to besecured to a transom of the boat 12. The transom is an upper edge at astern end of the boat 12. As a fourth example, not illustrated,embodiments of the invention may be configured to be secured to afloorboard of the boat 12, such as in a cockpit of the boat 12. As afifth example, embodiments of the invention may be configured to besecured to a helm of the boat 12. The helm includes other instrumentsand/or electronic devices 14 for the boat 12. Some embodiments may alsobe configured to be secured to the floorboard adjacent to the helm, suchthat the user may bring the electronic device 14 up as needed withoutpermanently installing the electronic device 14 in the helm.

A second exemplary purpose is for automobiles. In these embodiments, notillustrated, the electronic device 14 may be intermittently used suchthat it is easy to place into a prominent height and angle during use.As an example, embodiments of the invention may be utilized for taxi orride sharing applications. When the user is engaging in taxi or ridesharing activities, the electronic device 14 may be prominentlydisplayed. During other usage of the automobile, the electronic device14 may be stowed in another location that is easily accessible.

A third exemplary purpose is for agricultural and constructionequipment. In these embodiments, not illustrated, the electronic device14 may be intermittently used for a certain tool or attachment. Theelectronic device 14 may be prominently displayed while the tool orattachment is being used and stowed in other times.

A fourth exemplary purpose is for aircraft. In these embodiments, notillustrated, the electronic device 14 may be intermittently used forcertain functions and stowed in other times.

A fifth exemplary purpose is for cameras. In these embodiments, theelectronic device 14 may be desired for use at a large range of verticallocations. For example, the desired shot may include moving between alocation adjacent to an underlying surface 28 and a raised location.Existing tripods and other camera support structures do not includetelescoping functions that will perform this function.

It should be appreciated that while the portions of the descriptionherein relate to the boating exemplary purpose, various embodiments maybe directed to other or multiple purposes. The boating purpose isdiscussed to provide an easily understandable example to the reader.

Exemplary Fully Telescoping Device Mount

Turning to FIGS. 2-4 , an exemplary embodiment of the fully telescopingdevice mount 10 is shown from various views. FIGS. 2 and 3 both show aperspective view of the fully telescoping device mount 10 with theelectronic device 14 secured thereon. In FIG. 2 , the fully telescopingdevice mount 10 is in a fully extended position. In FIG. 3 , the fullytelescoping device mount 10 is in a fully retracted position. FIG. 4shows an exploded view of the various components of the fullytelescoping device mount 10.

The fully telescoping device mount 10 comprises a telescoping post 22, amount segment 24, and a base 26. The telescoping post 22 is disposedbetween the mount segment 24 and the base 26. The base 26 is configuredto be secured to an underlying surface 28 (as shown in FIG. 1 . Theunderlying surface 28 may be a vehicle, such as of the types discussedabove. The mount segment 24 is configured to support an electronicdevice 14 at a certain elevation and/or angle relative to the underlyingsurface 28, as best shown in FIG. 1 .

The telescoping post 22 includes an inner post segment 30 and an outerpost segment 32. The inner post segment 30 is at least partiallydisposed within the outer post segment 32. The telescoping post 22 isconfigured to be disposed in an extended position (as shown in FIG. 2 )and a retracted position (as shown in FIG. 3 ), as well as in anyintermediate position (not illustrated). The inner post segment 30 issecured to the base 26, such that the outer post segment 32 telescopesupward relative to the base 26 as well as the inner post segment 30.This is distinct from the standard telescoping post configuration inwhich a base is secured to an outer post segment and the inner postsegment telescopes relative thereto. By disposing the outer post segment32 toward a top end, the mount segment 24 can achieve a greater range ofmotion compared to a similarly sized traditional telescoping post.

The mount segment 24 is configured to secure an electronic device 14thereto. The mount segment 24 includes an outer collar 34 slidablysecurable to the outer post segment 32 of the telescoping post 22. Theouter collar 34 slides up and down on the outer post segment 32. Theouter collar 34 is thus capable of being disposed toward an upper end ofthe outer post segment 32 (referred to as an elevated position, as shownin FIG. 2 ) or toward a lower end (referred to as a lowered position, asshown in FIG. 3 ), as well as in any intermediate positions. As such, asshown in FIG. 3 , the outer collar 34 can be place adjacent to theunderlying surface 28 when the telescoping post 22 is retracted and theouter collar 34 is in the lowered position.

Thus, the mount segment 24 is configured to be raised relative to thebase 26 in a fully extended position, as shown in FIG. 2 ; as well asconfigured to be proximate to the base 26 in a fully retracted position,as shown in FIG. 3 . Further, as can be seen in FIG. 3 , at least aportion of the telescoping post 22 extends above the mount segment 24while the mount segment 24 is in the fully retracted position. This mayprovide benefits, such as a graspable handle (such as a stanchion) thatthe user, or other person, may utilize during operation of the vehiclewhile the electronic device 14 is not in use.

Exemplary Telescoping Post

Turning now to FIGS. 4 and 7-9 , the telescoping post 22 is shown inmore detail. The telescoping post 22 of embodiments comprises the outerpost segment 32, the inner post segment 30, and a post lock 36. Theinner post segment 30 is secured to the base 26, such that the innerpost remains in contact with the underlying surface 28 (such as thevehicle discussed above). The post lock 36 selectively secures the outerpost segment 32 relative to the inner post segment 30 such that therelative positions thereof are maintained. The post lock 36 may beunlocked, the outer post segment 32 slid relative to the inner postsegment 30, and the post lock 36 locked.

The inner post segment 30 of embodiments is a generally elongatedcylinder shape, presenting an upper end 38 and a lower end 40, as bestshown in FIG. 4 . The inner post segment 30 includes a cylindrical wall42. The cylindrical wall 42 presents an inner void 44 (also shown inFIG. 8 ). The inner post segment 30 may also include an inner cap 46.The inner cap 46 is disposed at the upper end 38 of the inner postsegment 30. The inner cap 46 interfaces with the outer post segment 32disposed thereon. The inner cap 46 may thus act as a linear bearing,allowing for and/or facilitating movement in a single, axial direction.

The inner post segment 30 may include a base interface 48 (shown inFIGS. 4, 8, and 9 ) at the lower end. The base interface 48 isconfigured to fit within or otherwise be secured to the base 26. In someembodiments, the base interface 48 may include a helical protrusion (notillustrated) configured to complement a threaded segment (notillustrated) of the base 26. In other embodiments, the base interface 48may present a smaller cross-sectional area than the cylindrical wall ofthe inner post segment 30. The base interface 48 may be secured to thebase 26 through welding, soldering, chemical adhesive, pressure fitting,or the like. In other embodiments, the cylindrical wall may be unitarywith the base 26.

The outer post segment 32 of embodiments is a generally elongatedcylinder shape, presenting an upper end 50 and a lower end 52, as bestshown in FIG. 4 . The outer post segment 32 includes a cylindrical wall54. The cylindrical wall 54 of the outer post segment 32 also presentsan inner void 56. The inner void 56 of the outer post segment 32 isconfigured to receive the inner post segment 30 therein. The outer postsegment 32 may include an upper cap 58. The upper cap 58 is disposedatop the outer post segment 32. The upper cap 58 may prevent the mountsegment 24 from exceeding the upper end 50 of the outer post segment 32,via an annular protrusion extending laterally from the upper cap 58, asbest shown in FIG. 4 .

In other embodiments, the inner post segment 30 and the outer postsegment 32 may present another shape, other than a circle, about ahorizontal cross-section. Examples of this cross-sectional shapeincludes a square, a rectangle, an ellipse, an arc segment, a triangle,or other shapes.

The post lock 36 is configured to selectively secure a relative positionof the inner post segment 30 and the outer post segment 32. The postlock 36 of embodiments, as best shown in FIG. 6 , includes a post collar62, a first lock segment 64, a second lock segment 66, and a fastener68. The post collar 62 is permanently secured to the outer post segment32 and configured to slide along the inner post segment 30. The postcollar 62 presents a generally annular shape. In an alternativeembodiment, as shown in FIG. 9 , the annular shape includes an upperring 70, a lower ring 72, and a support wall 74. The upper ring 70 isvertically spaced from the lower ring 72 via the support wall 74. A lockvoid is presented between the upper ring 70, the lower ring 72, and thesupport wall 74. This embodiment is also shown in FIGS. 5-8 . In otherembodiments, as shown in FIG. 4 , the annular shape includes the upperring 70 and the support wall 74 without a lower ring.

The first lock segment 64 and the second lock segment 66 occupy at leasta portion of the lock void. The first lock segment 64 and the secondlock segment 66 are disposed on or otherwise secured to the post collar62, such as at the support wall 74. The first lock segment 64 and thesecond lock segment 66 are each vertically spaced from the upper ring 70and/or the lower ring 72, as best shown in FIG. 8 .

As best shown in FIGS. 4 and 9 , the first lock segment 64 is laterallyspaced from the second lock segment 66. The first lock segment 64 andthe second lock segment 66 are each hingedly or pivotably secured to thepost collar 62, such as at the support wall 74. The first lock segment64 and the second lock segment 66 may present a general arc segmentshape, complementary to the overall annular shape of the post collar 62.The first lock segment 64 and/or the second lock segment 66 each presenta fastener recess 76 and a fastener receptor 78. The first lock segment64 and the second lock segment 66 apply a clamping force to the innerpost segment 30 via the fastener 68.

The fastener 68 of the post lock 36 is tightened into and/or through therespective fastener receptor(s) 78 to reduce a spacing between the firstlock segment 64 and the second lock segment 66, as best shown in FIGS. 4and 9 . The reduced spacing applies said clamping force which keeps theinner post secure relative to the outer post. The fastener 68 (as bestshown in FIGS. 4 and 9 ) includes a head 80, a shank 82, and a threadedsegment 84. The head 80 presents a flattened cylinder shape configuredto be grasped and turned by the fingers of the user. The head 80 maypresent an angular indicator representative of a current angularposition of the head (which may, by extension, be indicative of whetherthe post lock 36 is in a locked configuration or an unlockedconfiguration). The shank 82 extends from the head 80 and is configuredto fit within the fastener recess 76. The threaded segment 84 (shownbare in the drawings for simplicity) extends from the shank 82 and isconfigured to fit within the fastener receptor 78. In some embodiments,the first lock segment 64 and the second lock segment 66 aresymmetrical, such that the fastener 68 can be inserted into either thefirst lock segment 64 or the second lock segment 66 and be fastened tothe other of the first lock segment 64 and the second lock segment 66.In other embodiments, other types of securing structures may be used forthe post lock 36 to selectively secure and release the outer postsegment 32. Examples of these other structures may include a flip lock(e.g., a pivoting lever), a twist lock (e.g., an axially rotatingstructure), or the like.

The base 26 is secured to the inner post segment 30 such that the outerpost segment 32 telescopes relative to the inner post segment 30. Thebase 26 of embodiments presents a generally circular, as best shown inFIG. 6 . The base 26 of embodiments includes a raised annular segment86. The raised annular segment 86 extends upward and is configured toreceive the inner post therein. In some embodiments, the raised annularsegment 86 may be threaded so as to receive the helical protrusion ofthe inner post segment 30. In other embodiments, the inner post segment30 is secured to the base 26 via welding, a chemical adhesive, or thelike.

The base 26 may include one or more fastener receptors 88 configured toreceive a fastener (not illustrated) therein. The fastener receptor 88may align with a corresponding opening in the underlying surface 28,such as the foredeck 18 of the boat 12 as shown in FIG. 1 . The fastenermay be applied directly to the underlying surface 28, such as byscrewing into the underlying surface 28.

Exemplary Device Mounts

The mount segment 24 will now be discussed in more detail. As discussedabove, the mount segment 24 is configured to be slidably secured to theouter post segment 32 of the telescoping post 22. The mount segment 24is configured to be fully raised (as shown in FIG. 2 ) or fully lowered(as shown in FIG. 3 ) or placed in any intermediate positiontherebetween. This allows for the electronic device 14 held by the mountsegment 24 to be disposed in a high, prominent position for use by theuser or in a low, stowed position during non-use.

In embodiments, the mount segment 24 includes a yoke 90 and a collarlock 92. The yoke 90 supports the electronic device 14. The collar lock92 sets and secures the position of the yoke 90 relative to thetelescoping post 22. The collar lock 92 may set the vertical positionrelative to the telescoping post 22 and/or the angular position (througha horizontal plane) relative to the telescoping post 22. The yoke 90 mayalso set the angular position (through a vertical plane) of theelectronic device 14 relative to the collar lock 92 (as shown in FIG. 13and discussed more below). In some embodiments, the yoke 90 is providedwith the electronic device 14. In these embodiments, the mount segment24 may include the collar lock 92 of the outer collar 34, to which theuser attaches the yoke 90 and the electronic device 14.

The yoke 90 of embodiments presents a general U-shape. The yoke 90includes a support wall 94, a first protrusion 96, and a secondprotrusion 98. The first protrusion 96 and the second protrusion 98 eachextend from respective ends of the support wall 94. A beveledintersection 100 may be presented between the support wall 94 and therespective protrusion 96,98. The first protrusion 96 and/or the secondprotrusion 98 may include an arcuate bevel 102 at a distal end.

The first protrusion 96 and the second protrusion 98 are configured tosecure to respective sides of the electronic device 14, as best shown inFIGS. 4 and 9 . The first protrusion 96, the second protrusion 98, andthe support wall 94 define a channel 104 therein. The electronic device14 is configured to be disposed within the channel 104 and secured tothe first protrusion 96 and the second protrusion 98. The firstprotrusion 96 and the second protrusion 98 each present a device opening106. The device opening 106 is configured to be secured to the devicevia a fastener or other structure (not illustrated). The firstprotrusion 96 and the second protrusion 98 may be a standard mount typefor the electronic device 14.

The yoke 90 includes one or more openings 108 configured to be securedto the collar lock 92 and/or an intermediary plate 109. One or morefasteners (not illustrated) are disposed through the yoke 90 (via theopenings 108) and into the collar lock 92 to secure the yoke 90 to thecollar lock 92. The intermediary plate 109 may include openings 108configured to receive fasteners from the intermediary plate 109 to thecollar lock 92 and from the intermediary plate 109 to the yoke 90, asbest shown in FIG. 4 . The intermediary plate 104 allows for the yoke 90to be easily changed such that other electronic devices 14 may beaffixed to the telescoping device mount 10.

The collar lock 92 is configured to selectively secure a relativeposition of the mount segment 24 and the outer post segment 32. Thecollar lock 92 of embodiments, as best shown in FIG. 6 , includes acollar body 110 having a first lock segment 112 and a second locksegment 114, as well as a fastener 116. The collar lock 92 ispermanently secured to the yoke 90 and configured to slide along theouter post segment 32. The collar lock 92 presents a generally annularshape.

The first lock segment 112 and the second lock segment 114 occupy aredisposed laterally from each other. The first lock segment 112 and thesecond lock segment 114 are disposed on or otherwise secured to thecollar body 110. The first lock segment 112 is laterally spaced from thesecond lock segment 114. The first lock segment 112 and the second locksegment 114 are each hingedly or pivotably secured to the collar body110. The first lock segment 112 and the second lock segment 114 maypresent a general arc segment shape, complementary to the overallannular shape of the post collar 62. The first lock segment 112 and/orthe second lock segment 114 each present a fastener recess 118 and afastener receptor 120. The first lock segment 112 and the second locksegment 114 apply a clamping force to the inner post segment 32 via thefastener 116.

The fastener 116 of the collar lock 92 is tightened into and/or throughthe respective fastener receptors to reduce a spacing between the firstlock segment 112 and the second lock segment 114. The reduced spacingapplies said clamping force which keeps the collar body 110 securerelative to the outer post segment 32. The fastener 116 (as best shownin FIGS. 4 and 9 ) includes a head 122, a shank 124, and a threadedsegment 126. The head 122 presents a flattened cylinder shape configuredto be grasped and turned by the fingers of the user. The head 122 maypresent an angular indicator (as illustrated in FIG. 9 ) representativeof a current angular position of the head 122 (which may, by extension,be indicative of whether the post lock 36 is in a locked configurationor an unlocked configuration). The shank 124 extends from the head 122and is configured to fit within the fastener recess 118. The threadedsegment 126 (shown bare in the drawings for simplicity) extends from theshank 124 and is configured to fit within the fastener receptor 120. Insome embodiments, the first lock segment 112 and the second lock segment114 are symmetrical, such that the fastener 116 can be inserted intoeither the first lock segment 112 or the second lock segment 114 and befastened to the other of the first lock segment 112 and the second locksegment 114.

In embodiments, the collar lock 92 includes one or more bearingsconfigured to assist the collar body 110 in sliding along and/orrotating relative to the outer post segment 32, as shown in FIGS. 4 and9 . In some embodiments, the collar lock 92 includes a linear bearing128 and a locking bearing 130. The linear bearing 128 and the lockingbearing 130 are each disposed on an interior surface of the collar body110 so as to reduce friction between the collar body 110 and thecylindrical wall 54 of the outer post segment 32. The locking bearing130 is disposed within first lock segment 112 and the second locksegment 114 to aid in the clamping. The linear bearing 128 is disposedabove the locking bearing 130 and within the collar body 110. The linearbearing 128 assists with linear movement of the collar body 110 relativeto the outer post segment 32, as well as rotation about the outer postsegment 32.

In some embodiments, as best shown in FIGS. 2-4 , the collar lock 92includes a secondary fastener 132. The secondary fastener 132 isselectively releasable to aid in rotation of the collar lock 92 aboutthe outer post segment 32. The secondary fastener 132 is frictionallyheld against the linear bearing 130. The user may thus release thesecondary fastener 132 to rotate the electronic device 14 about theouter post segment 32.

In embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4 , the post lock 36 may also includeone or more bearings to assist in sliding along and/or rotating relativeto the inner post segment 30, as shown in FIG. 4 . In some embodiments,the post lock 36 includes a linear bearing 134 and a locking bearing136. The linear bearing 134 and the locking bearing 136 are eachdisposed on an interior surface of the post lock 36 so as to reducefriction between the post collar 62 and the cylindrical wall 42 of theinner post segment 30. The locking bearing 136 is disposed within firstlock segment 64 and the second lock segment 66 to aid in the clamping.The linear bearing 134 is disposed above the locking bearing 136 andwithin the post collar 62. The linear bearing 134 assists with linearmovement of the post collar 62 relative to the inner post segment 30, aswell as rotation about the inner post segment 30.

In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 9 , the collar lock 92 mayinclude a single linear bearing 128 which also functions as the lockingbearing. Further, the post lock 36 may not include a bearing.

It should be appreciated that the fastener 68 of the post lock 36 may bethe same size and shape as the fastener 116 of the collar lock 92, suchthat the two fasteners 68,116 are interchangeable. In other embodiments,other types of securing structures may be used for collar lock 93 toselectively secure and release the mount segment 24. Examples of theseother structures may include a flip lock (e.g., a pivoting lever), atwist lock (e.g., an axially rotating structure), or the like.

In other embodiments, another type of device mount may be used in lieuof the yoke 90. Depending upon the type of electronic device 14 to bemount, any of numerous types of device mount structures may be selected.As discussed above, the electronic device 14 may include the yoke 90,such that the electronic device 14 and the yoke 90 are secured to thetelescoping device mount 10.

Exemplary Alternative Embodiments

Turning to FIGS. 10-14 , various alternative embodiments of theinvention (beyond those discussed above) are shown and will be brieflydescribed herein. It should be appreciated that the alternativeembodiments discussed herein may share various characteristics with theabove-discussed embodiment, or with other embodiments described herein.The alternative embodiments are discussed to provide additional examplesof embodiments to the reader. The alternative embodiments should not beinterpreted as a preferred or a non-preferred embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 10 , a first alternative embodiment may be atelescoping device mount 10 configured to support two electronic devices14 (which may be referred to as a “dual-device embodiment”). Thedual-device embodiment includes a mount segment 24 that is configured tosecure two distinct and/or disparate electronic devices 14. Thetelescoping post 22 of the dual-device embodiment may be similar to thetelescoping post 22 described above. The mount segment 24 of thisembodiment includes the collar lock 92, a first yoke 138, and a secondyoke 140. As can be seen in FIG. 10 , the first yoke 138 may be orientedhorizontally and the second yoke 140 may be oriented vertically. Thisarrangement allows for the viewing of the electronic devices 14 in astaggered manner. A second electronic device 142 (secured to the secondyoke 140) is thus disposed above a first electronic device 144 (securedto the first yoke 138). The collar lock 92 may include a second yokemount 146 extending therefrom. The second yoke mount 146 extendshorizontally from the collar lock 92 so as to provide structure supportto the vertically extending second yoke 140. In some embodiments, thecollar lock 92 of the dual-device embodiment may present a square prismshape (in lieu of the cylindrical shape shown in FIGS. 2-6 and 9 ) tosupport the second yoke mount 146.

Other embodiments (not illustrated) may be configured to secure three ormore electronic devices 14. Still other embodiments may be configured tosecure electronic devices 14 of different sizes and shapes. Thus, theseembodiments may be customizable, in which the user may select a yoke 90configured to support the specific electronic device or electronicdevices 14 which the user intends to utilize.

As shown in FIG. 11 , the dual-device embodiment may be lowered to afully retracted position similarly to the single-device embodiment (asshown in FIGS. 3 and 6 ). As shown, as least a portion of thetelescoping post 22 extends above the mount segment 24 when in the fullyretracted position. As such, the telescoping post 22 may be grasped ifneeded (e.g., to perform functions of a stanchion).

As shown in FIG. 12 , an alternative embodiment of the base 26 is shown.It should be noted that the alternative embodiment of the base 26 isalso shown in FIGS. 10-11 . While the base 26 shown in FIGS. 2-9 isconfigured to be permanently installed, the alternative embodiment ofthe base 26 is configured to allow for removal and installation of thetelescoping post 22 as needed. The base 26 of these embodiments includesa lower base 148 and an upper base 150. The lower base 148 ispermanently secured to the underlying surface 28, such as via a set ofopenings 152, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 . The upper base 150 ispermanently secured to the telescoping post 22. The upper base 150 isselectively secured to the lower base 148, such that the upper base 150may be removed from the lower base 148 as needed. The lower base 148presents two or more channels 154 therein configured to receive acomplementary protrusion 156 of the upper base 150 (or vice-versa).

FIGS. 13 and 14 show alternative embodiments of the yoke 90. FIG. 13shows an angled embodiment, in which the first protrusion 96 and thesecond protrusion 98 are at a raised angle. The support wall 94 is alsodisposed at an angle relative to the telescoping post 22 (not shown inthis figure). The raised angle may allow for a different field of viewof the electronic device 14 (not shown in this figure). The yoke 90 ofthis embodiment may include an angular spacer 158 including a brace 160and a reinforcing wall 162. The brace 160 is secured to the intermediaryplate 109 (such as via a fastener through the openings 108) and to thesupport wall 94. The reinforcing wall 162 is disposed between respectiveends of the brace 160.

FIG. 14 shows an alternative embodiment of the yoke 90 of thedouble-device embodiment discussed above. In this embodiment, a secondyoke 140 is secured to a first yoke 138. The second yoke 140 includestwo linear spacers 164 that extend from the support wall 94 of thesecond yoke 140. The two linear spacers 164 may each include an opening166 configured to allow the secondary fastener 132 (not shown in thisfigure) to pass therethrough. It should be appreciated that thesecondary fastener 132 utilized with these embodiments may be longerthan the secondary fastener 132 illustrated in FIG. 4 . The two linearspacers 164 are both secured to the intermediary plate 109 via fasteners(not illustrated). This allows the user to add onto the embodiment shownin FIG. 13 to be the embodiment shown in FIG. 14 , such that the usermay add a second electronic device 134 (shown in FIG. 10 ) to thetelescoping device mount 10.

Exemplary Methods of Use

While various methods of using the embodiments of the invention havebeen discussed throughout, a method of utilizing an electronic device ona vehicle will now be discussed. Embodiments of the invention aredirected to the method discussed herein. Other embodiments of theinvention may be directed to other methods. Additional steps may beadded or removed. Steps may be performed in any order.

Some embodiments of the method of utilizing an electronic device on avehicle comprise releasing a post lock 36 of a telescoping post 22;raising an outer post segment 32 relative to an inner post segment 30,wherein the inner post segment 30 is secured to the vehicle via a base26; releasing a collar lock 92 of a device mount; raising the mountsegment 24 relative to the outer post; and altering an angle of a devicein the mount segment 24 relative to the telescoping post 22. The postlock 36 may be released by rotating a head of a fastener associated withthe post lock 36 or may be released by some other structure. The outerpost segment 32 may be raised by grasping the outer post segment 32 bythe user. The collar lock 92 may be released by rotating a head of afastener associated with the collar lock 92. The mount segment 24 may beraised by grasping the mount segment 24 and/or the electronic devicesecured therein. Altering the angle may be performed by grasping theelectronic device and inducing a pivot relative to the mount segment 24.

The method may further include steps such as securing the post lock 36and the collar lock 92 in the desired locations, which may be atintermediate locations. The method may further include steps such assetting an angle of the mount segment 24 (about a horizontal plane) andtightening the collar lock 92 at the angle (such as via a secondaryfastener 132). The method may further include selecting the mountsegment 24 based at least in part on the electronic device 14; securingthe electronic device 14 within the mount segment 24; and emplacing themount segment 24 over the telescoping post 22. The mount segment may beselected based upon the size, shape, display angle, and other displaycharacteristics of the electronic device 14. In some embodiments, theuser may select a yoke 90 to then be secured to the outer collar 34,such that the outer collar 34 is permanently attached to the telescopingpost 22 and secured to the yoke 90 via the intermediary plate 109 viathe set of openings 152, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 .

Additional Considerations

In this description, references to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or“embodiments” mean that the feature or features being referred to areincluded in at least one embodiment of the technology. Separatereferences to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or “embodiments” inthis description do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment and arealso not mutually exclusive unless so stated and/or except as will bereadily apparent to those skilled in the art from the description. Forexample, a feature, structure, act, etc. described in one embodiment mayalso be included in other embodiments but is not necessarily included.Thus, the current technology can include a variety of combinationsand/or integrations of the embodiments described herein.

Although the present application sets forth a detailed description ofnumerous different embodiments, it should be understood that the legalscope of the description is defined by the words of the claim(s) setforth at the end of this patent and equivalents. The detaileddescription is to be construed as exemplary only and does not describeevery possible embodiment since describing every possible embodimentwould be impractical. Numerous alternative embodiments may beimplemented, using either current technology or technology developedafter the filing date of this patent, which would still fall within thescope of the claims.

Throughout this specification, plural instances may implementcomponents, operations, or structures described as a single instance.Although individual operations of one or more methods are illustratedand described as separate operations, one or more of the individualoperations may be performed concurrently, and nothing requires that theoperations be performed in the order illustrated. Structures andfunctionality presented as separate components in example configurationsmay be implemented as a combined structure or component. Similarly,structures and functionality presented as a single component may beimplemented as separate components. These and other variations,modifications, additions, and improvements fall within the scope of thesubject matter herein. The foregoing statements in the paragraph shallapply unless so stated in this description and/or except as will bereadily apparent to those skilled in the art from the description.

As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,”“including,” “has,” “having” or any other variation thereof, areintended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process,method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is notnecessarily limited to only those elements but may include otherelements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method,article, or apparatus.

We claim:
 1. A device mount configured to hold an electronic device on aboat, the device mount comprising: a base configured to be secured tothe boat; a telescoping post having an inner post segment including aproximal end and an outer post segment including a distal end, whereinthe proximal end is secured to the base; and a mount segment configuredto secure the electronic device thereto, wherein the mount segment isslidably securable to an outer surface of the distal end of the outerpost segment, wherein the mount segment is configured to be placed in alocked position and an unlocked position, and wherein while in theunlocked position the mount segment is slidable along the outer surfaceof the outer post segment.
 2. The device mount of claim 1, wherein themount segment is configured to be proximate to the base in a loweredconfiguration.
 3. The device mount of claim 1, wherein the mount segmentincludes a slidable collar that is collar slidably securable to an outersurface of the outer post.
 4. The device mount of claim 3, wherein theslidable collar presents a generally annular shape, with the post beingdisposed within an opening of the annular shape.
 5. The device mount ofclaim 3, the slidable collar further comprising: a first lock segment; asecond lock segment; and a fastener disposed through at least a portionof the first lock segment and at least a portion of the second locksegment.
 6. The device mount of claim 5, wherein the first lock segmentis laterally spaced from the second lock segment.
 7. The device mount ofclaim 6, wherein the fastener is configured to reduce lateral spacingbetween the first lock segment and the second lock segment so as toapply a force to the post.
 8. The device mount of claim 5, wherein thefastener is configured to pass through a first fastener receptor of thefirst lock segment and a second fastener receptor of the second locksegment.
 9. The device mount of claim 5, the slidable collar furthercomprising: a collar body, wherein the first lock segment and the secondlock segment are each hingedly secured to the collar body.
 10. Thedevice mount of claim 9, wherein the collar body includes an upper ringand a lower ring, wherein the first lock segment is disposed between theupper ring and the lower ring, wherein the second lock segment isdisposed between the upper ring and the lower ring.
 11. A mountedelectronic device system comprising: an electronic device configured foruse on a boat; a device mount configured to secure the electronic devicerelative to the boat, the device mount including— a base configured tobe secured to the boat; a post having a proximal end and a distal end,wherein the proximal end of the post is secured to the base, the distalend telescoping relative to the proximal end and relative to the base;and a mount segment configured to secure the electronic device thereto,wherein the mount is slidably securable to an outer surface of thedistal end of the post, wherein the mount is configured to be placed ina locked position and an unlocked position, and wherein while in theunlocked position the mount is slidable along the outer surface of thedistal end of the post.
 12. The mounted electronic device system ofclaim 11, wherein the mount segment is configured to be proximate to thebase in a lowered configuration.
 13. The mounted electronic devicesystem of claim 11, wherein a slidable collar is permanently securedaround the post.
 14. The mounted electronic device system of claim 11,wherein a slidable collar presents a generally annular shape, with thepost being disposed within an opening of the annular shape.
 15. Themounted electronic device system of claim 11, a slidable collar furthercomprising: a first lock segment; a second lock segment; and a fastenerdisposed through at least a portion of the first lock segment and atleast a portion of the second lock segment.
 16. The mounted electronicdevice system of claim 15, wherein the first lock segment is laterallyspaced from the second lock segment.
 17. The mounted electronic devicesystem of claim 16, wherein the fastener is configured to reduce lateralspacing between the first lock segment and the second lock segment so asto apply a force to the post, the fastener is configured to pass througha first fastener receptor of the first lock segment and a secondfastener receptor of the second lock segment.
 18. The mounted electronicdevice system of claim 15, the slidable collar further comprising: acollar body, wherein the first lock segment and the second lock segmentare each hingedly secured to the collar body.
 19. The mounted electronicdevice system of claim 18, wherein the collar body includes an upperring and a lower ring, wherein the first lock segment is disposedbetween the upper ring and the lower ring, wherein the second locksegment is disposed between the upper ring and the lower ring.
 20. Atelescoping device mount configured to hold an electronic device on avehicle, the telescoping device mount comprising: a base configured tobe secured to the vehicle; a telescoping post including an inner postsegment and an outer post segment, the inner post segment secured to thebase at a proximal end of the inner post segment and slidably engageablewith the outer post segment from a distal end of the inner post toward;and a mount segment configured to secure the electronic device andslidably securable to the outer post segment of the telescoping post,wherein the mount segment is configured to be slid along an outersurface of the outer post segment.